Introducing the CASES Occupational Performance Special Interest Group (OPSIG)

The Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES) is pleased to shine a spotlight on the Occupational Performance Special Interest Group (OPSIG), a growing community of academics and practitioners dedicated to advancing sport and exercise science within physically demanding occupational settings. 

Established in 2022, OPSIG brings together researchers and practitioners working across occupational performance to promote evidence-based practice, foster collaboration, and strengthen the scientific foundations that underpin support for individuals working in demanding professions. 

Supporting performance beyond sport

While sport and exercise science is often associated with athletic performance, its application extends far beyond traditional sporting environments. Firefighters, military personnel, rescue workers, and other occupational groups face significant physiological and psychological demands that closely mirror those experienced by elite athletes.

OPSIG was created to provide a forum for professionals working in this space, encouraging collaboration across disciplines including physiology, psychology, biomechanics, strength and conditioning, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. The group welcomes members at all career stages and is committed to supporting practitioner development, strengthening research activity, and maintaining the high professional standards expected by CASES. 

Meet the committee

The OPSIG committee is chaired by Dr Mitch Lomax MCASES and includes:

• Dr Nicky Armstrong MCASES
• Dr Jenny Smith
• Dr Jenny Burbage
• Dr Matt Maley
• Dr Josh Osofa
• Dr Emily Watkins
• Dr Sean Hudson
• Professor Sam Blacker MCASES

Committee members represent a diverse range of sectors, including academia, industry, government organisations, sporting bodies, and independent practice. Institutions represented include the University of Portsmouth, University of Chichester, York St John University, Loughborough University, the University of Roehampton, and the Ministry of Defence's Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL). Since its formation, OPSIG has focused on establishing a clear strategic direction and building a connected community of professionals working in occupational performance. The group has delivered a series of expert webinars covering topics such as:

• Developing physical employment standards
• Understanding the burden of load carriage in occupational settings
• Breast health and bra design for women in physically demanding occupations

Alongside its educational activities, OPSIG has worked to strengthen professional networks through virtual coffee events, a member directory, and annual general meetings. These initiatives provide opportunities for members to connect, exchange ideas, and develop collaborations across sectors and career stages. 

The future

Over the next two to five years, OPSIG has ambitious plans to further raise the profile of occupational performance within both CASES and the wider sport and exercise science community. Key objectives include:

• Increasing the number of occupationally focused conferences and events supported by CASES
• Expanding networking and continuing professional development opportunities
• Establishing a dedicated occupational performance presence at the annual CASES Conference, or potentially developing a standalone OPSIG conference
• Exploring opportunities for a CASES accreditation route in occupational performance
• Continuing to deliver webinars and round-table discussions that promote excellence and best practice

Why should CASES members get involved?

Occupational performance represents a powerful example of the real-world impact of sport and exercise science. Applying evidence-based approaches in high-demand occupations can improve health outcomes, enhance operational effectiveness, and ultimately help keep people safe. For students and early-career practitioners, the field also highlights the breadth of opportunities available beyond traditional sport settings. Through OPSIG, members can access a multidisciplinary network, discover emerging research, learn about job opportunities, attend events and webinars, and engage with a community translating sport and exercise science into meaningful operational practice. As OPSIG continues to grow, it is helping to ensure that sport and exercise science plays an increasingly important role in supporting performance where it matters most.

To learn more about the Occupational Performance Special Interest Group and how to get involved, visit the CASES OPSIG pages or update your subscription preference to include Occupational Performance within your Membership Profile.

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